Hybrid data transport for a virtualized distributed antenna system

Abstract

A system for data transport in a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) includes a plurality of remote Digital Access Units (DAUs) located at a Remote location. The plurality of remote DAUs are coupled to each other and operable to transport digital signals between the plurality of remote DAUs. The system also includes a plurality of central hubs. Each of the plurality of central hubs is in communication with one of the remote DAUs using an electrical communications path. The system further includes a plurality of transmit / receive cells. Each of the plurality of transmit / receive cells includes a plurality of remote hubs. Each of the remote hubs in one of the plurality of transmit / receive cells is in communication with one of the plurality of central hubs using an optical communications path.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 604,341, filed on Feb. 28, 2012, entitled “Hybrid Data Transport for a Virtualized Distributed Antenna System,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Wireless communication systems employing Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) are available. A DAS typically includes one or more host units, optical fiber cable or other suitable transport infrastructure, and multiple remote antenna units. A radio base station is often employed at the host unit location commonly known as a base station hotel, and the DAS provides a means for distribution of the base station's downlink and uplink signals among multiple remote antenna units. The DAS architecture with routing of signals to and from remote antenna units can be either fixed or reconfigurable.[0003]A DAS is advantageous from a signal ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention has several benefits over conventional techniques. It can transport hotel base stations to a remote location that is far from the physical location. It also enables the routing capacity at the remote location. These are just a few examples of the many benefits of the invention.

Problems solved by technology

Wireless and mobile network operators face the continuing challenge of building networks that effectively manage high data-traffic growth rates.

One of the most difficult challenges faced by network operators is caused by the physical movement of subscribers from one location to another, and particularly when wireless subscribers congregate in large numbers at one location.

If the indoor wireless network resources were properly sized during the design process for subscriber loading as it is during normal working hours when subscribers are in their normal work areas, it is very likely that the lunchtime scenario will present some unexpected challenges with regard to available wireless capacity and data throughput.

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